FIRE AT TURUA.

Thames Star, Volume XI, Issue 3626, 10 August 1880, Page 2

FIRE AT TURUA.

DESTRUCTION OF MR W. H. BAGNALL'S HOUSE.

A fire broke out last night in the house occupied by Mr W. H. Bagnall, at Turua, and spread with such rapidity, that Mr and Mrs Bagnall had just time to save themselves and their two children, when the whole place was in flames. The alarm of fire was quickly given by ringing the Saw Mill bell and the residents were soon on the spot. By great exertions the adjoining houses occupied by Mr L. J. Bagnall and Mr W. Griffiths were saved, although the latter was considerably burned. The night was very fine and calm, and to this may be ascribed the non-extension of the fire. The cause of the fire is a mystery. It commenced in the vicinity of the dining room chimney. The crackling of the fire awoke Mr Bagnall, who on proceeding to the dining room found it all ablaze, and had his forehead severely burned by the flames, which met him when he opened the door. He at once called out " fire," and removed Mrs Bagnall, his two little children and the servant to a place of safety. On returning the whole house was so full of smoke and flames that it was impossible to save anything, so that they escaped with only the clothes in which they slept. The building and furniture were uninsured. The loss is very considerable, including everything in the house, and amounts to nearly £300. Men, women, and children vied with each other in their efforts to prevent the spreading of the fire, and save what seemed at one time certain to be destroyed. It is matter for congratulation that no further damage was done.